Discover the best restaurants in Kiama: A food lover’s guide

Kiama restaurants are a highlight on any NSW South Coast itinerary.

Food lovers road-tripping from Sydney along the Princes Highway will find a multitude of great Kiama restaurants that make it worthy of an extended stopover. This beautiful part of the NSW South Coast is so much more than its dramatic coastline with a range of dynamic dining venues to suit everyone in the family.

From oceanfront eateries to cosy cafes, here’s our hit list of the best restaurants in Kiama, just a short drive from Sydney.

The shortlist

Hottest New Opening: Frida’s Cantina
Hidden Gem: The Blue Swimmer at Seahaven
Family-Friendly Spot: The Hungry Monkey
Best for Brunch: Diggies Kiama
Casual Eats: Slow Dough
Best Views: The Hill Bar + Kitchen
Best Date Spot: Little Betty’s
Best For Large Groups: Cedar Cutters Bar & Restaurant
Best Pub Lunch: Grand Hotel Kiama

1. Miss Arda

a close-up shot of a dish at Miss Arda, Kiama restaurants — A moreish Middle Eastern-inspired dish on offer at Miss Arda.

Miss Arda is not your average casual Kiama deli-cafe. Well, duh. That’s because Emily Lewisman (nee Herbert), former head chef of London’s Ottolenghi Belgravia, is at the helm. Lewisman thought she could open the casual cafe in the seaside village without much fanfare. But you don’t work for the Ottolenghi empire and fly under the radar. This stunningly picturesque part of the NSW South Coast is now even more of a draw for foodies thanks to the moreish Middle Eastern-inspired fare on offer at Miss Arda . Be indoctrinated into this Kiama cult by ordering starters such as beetroot falafel, steak tartare, and burrata with grilled peaches and candied pumpkin seeds. For mains, there are options like duck pancakes or orange blossom chicken skewers freckled with dukkha. Thereafter, a cocktail and the tahini brownie times two for dessert.

Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Cosmopolitan Kiama
Location: 62 Terralong St, Kiama

2. Frida’s Cantina

pouring sweet syrup over a breakfast plate at Frida’s Cantina, Kiama restaurants — The menu at Frida’s Cantina is as vibrant as the restaurant vibe. (Image: Destination Kiama)

The atmosphere at Frida’s Cantina is as vibrant and colourful as you’d expect. The name of the restaurant is a nod to trailblazing Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. By embracing her name, the restaurant has also drawn inspiration from her creative style. One of the reasons Mexican restaurants remain so popular in Australia is they are welcoming, inclusive and laid-back. Frida Kahlo was known for hosting lively parties. Subsequently, the venue is decked out with the sort of objects she had dotted around her home in Coyoacá: from Mexican ceramics to artworks, traditional hojalata (tin craft) and Day of the Dead calaveras (skulls). Order smashed avo for breakfast, but make it Mexican: in this case, the guac on sourdough is topped with pico de gallo and feta. Furthermore, the brightly lit joint is also a fave for flautas, bocadillos and tacos. Great for a group celebration and family-friendly fiesta.

Cuisine: Modern Mexican
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Lively fiesta vibes.
Location: 40 Collins, Kiama

3. Little Betty’s

dinner at Little Betty’s, Kiama restaurants — The dark and moody space is perfect for an intimate dinner. (Image: Little Betty’s)

So you’ve made it big on Bitcoin and want to retire in Kiama? Stumbling across a neighbourhood wine bar like Little Betty’s might just get you across the line. This kick-ass bar in Kiama has a lot of by-the-glass options as well as a considered and concise menu of tapas and charcuterie. Markedly, it’s a great place for a first date and intimate enough so that you can rub elbows and pretend it was an accident while watching local bands. Go for the dry aged fillet au poivre and stay for the dirty negronis and pisco discos. Afterwards, if you want to get more involved, stalk @littlebettys on Instagram so you can catch a live gig or pop-up wine dinner and join their wine club. Use Little Betty’s botanical wallpaper as your backdrop for the ‘gram.

Cuisine: pan-Asian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Lively fiesta vibes.
Location: 1/55 Collins St Kiama

4. The Farmer’s Table

The Farmer’s Table in a historic Kiama terrace house — The Farmer’s Table is tucked into a historic Kiama terrace house on Collins Street. (Image: DEFACTO CO)

Put The Farmer’s Table on your list of best Kiama restaurants. During the week, The Farmer’s Table doles out wholesome breakfast dishes such as brekky bruschettas, corn fritters and fluffy buttermilk pancakes. Locally sourced ingredients contribute to the quality of the lunch menu, too. Think rainbow-bright harvest salads, sriracha buttered king prawns, and panko-crumbed calamari. Don’t miss dinners on Friday and Saturday nights where you can build your own banquet of specialties such as the prawn and chorizo linguine or farmer’s platter for two. The paddock-to-plate ethos is legit: many of the ingredients have been sourced from the family farm in Jamberoo. Kudos to the cafe for winning the Outstanding Cafe Award at the 2025 Illawarra & South Coast Local Business Awards

Cuisine: Paddock-to-plate.
Average price: $$
Atmosphere: Family friendly.
Location: 2/42 Collins St, Kiama

5. Slow Dough

the staff busy in the kitchen at Slow Dough, Kiama restaurants — Pick up a loaf to go at Slow Dough.

The concept of slowing down while on a road trip of the NSW South Coast is made more alluring with the promise of a stop at Slow Dough . The bakery which began as a hobby in a garage has sprouted in the old minister’s cottage where it opens to the public from Fridays to Sundays. Follow the aroma of freshly baked sourdough to the dinky little cottage to pick up a loaf to go or a perfect little piccolo with a pastry treat. Order a six-pack of croissants and a Basque cheesecake in advance so you don’t arrive at your well-to-do aunt’s place empty-handed. Your obsession with carbs will be fulfilled with the chilli oil fougasse and super seed loaf.

Cuisine: Baked goods
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Homey.
Location: 19 Bong Bong St, Kiama

6. Penny Whistler’s

a woman holding plates of food at Penny Whistler, Kiama — Comforting breakfast favourites at Penny Whistler.

Light floods through the floor-to-ceiling windows at Penny Whistler’s , which concertinas out to create a comfortable place to chill overlooking Kiama Harbour, coloured in inky blues and whites. The kitchen prides itself on sourcing local produce and there are always delectable daily specials on rotation. Open for all-day dining, Penny Whistler’s invites guests to enjoy its relaxed village vibes and enviable offerings for breakfast, brunch and lunch. Stand-out signature dishes on the lunch menu include the tostada bowl filled with smoked sweet corn, crushed avocado, black bean and tomato salsa, chicken, sour cream and jalapenos with a crispy corn tostada. The Wagyu beef cheeseburger and beer-battered fish and chips are also family-friendly options. Pair your meals with either a chilled white, bold red or crisp lager. Here’s cheers.

Cuisine:  Contemporary Australian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Coastal chic.
Location: 5/31 Shoalhaven St, Kiama

7. The Hungry Monkey

a hand holding a cup of coffee at The Hungry Monkey, Kiama — Head to The Hungry Monkey for your caffeine fix.

There’s only one thing Aussies love more than a tricked-up piece of avocado toast. That’s got to be a big fat burger. It’s a beloved rite of passage for holidaymakers to stop in at The Hungry Monkey while staying in Kiama. It’s also the place to hit regardless of whether you have hang-xiety or are simply craving a Southern fried chicken burger. Worth noting is the fact The Hungry Monkey is also one of the most family-friendly restaurants in Kiama.

Get the cheeky monkeys some loaded fries with bacon and cheese and a couple of sliders. There have been long queues snaking out the door of the burger bar since it was established in Kiama a decade ago. But don’t worry, the chefs know how to keep the line moving. And it will buy you enough time to decide what you’re going to have for dinner: soft-shell crab tacos, nourishing rice bowls or BBQ pork ribs.

Cuisine: American-style fast food
Average price: $$
Atmosphere:  It’s giving salty surfer.
Location: 5/32 Collins St, Kiama

8. The Hill Bar + Kitchen

coastal views from the dining area at The Hillbar + Kitchen — Soak up coastal views at The Hillbar + Kitchen.

The staff at The Hill Bar + Kitchen in Kiama’s neighbouring suburb of Gerringong are cheery, attentive and very accommodating. The dishes are almost as dreamy as the coastal views at the light-filled casual diner which is ‘on the hill, by the sea’. The Hill Bar + Kitchen’s extensive menu features an abundance of locally sourced seafood as well as juicy hamburgers. And the only thing better than The Hill Bar + Kitchen’s pizzas is the view that goes with it. The carb-conscious will be pleased with the green goddess salad. Bonus points for the 12 taps of local and international beers and ciders. Start your Saturday by meeting fellow fitness freaks at The Hill for the 7am Run Club. Alternatively, head to The Hill for a few sneaky sundowners and meal with a stellar view of the coastline.

Cuisine: Contemporary Australian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Casual coastal dining with killer views.
Location: 98 Fern St, Gerringong

9. Diggies Kiama

a breakfast feast at Diggies Kiama — The indulgent breakfast menu at Diggies will have you coming back for seconds. (Image: Buffet Digital)

Want to understand why residents of Sydney’s south talk about how cool Kiama is? Visit Diggies Kiama , a kind of chic seaside eatery perched on Blowhole Point. Diggies has exceptional views of Kiama Harbour and an exquisite menu. Aussie beach culture is embraced via a seasonal menu that features local seasonal ingredients. Choices for an indulgent breakfast are endless: from toast with scrambled eggs to buttermilk pancakes, brekkie burritos and French toast with fresh berries.

The Blowhole Roll is also a crowd favourite on weekends, stuffed with bacon and free-range eggs on a milk bun with cheddar, slaw, bacon jam and pickled jalapenos. And you only need to glance at the dishes being paraded past at lunchtime to know what the best-selling items are: battered market fish with tartare, Philly cheesesteak toasties and crumbed fish tacos.  If you dig Diggies, then it’s worth detouring to its other outposts in Wollongong and North Beach.

Cuisine: Contemporary Australian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: The vibe is all nautical Nantucket cool.
Location: 1 Blowhole Point Rd, Kiama

10. Olive & Vine

Olive & Vine is the sort of place you go to for a fuss-free feed with the kids. There’s no better place to eat fish and chips than beside the seaside, beside the sea. The beachside eatery does a cracking beer-battered flathead served with chunky golden fries, a leafy side salad and house-made tartare sauce. There’s also a concise menu for little ones with options such as ham and pineapple pizza or penne with a rich tomato sugo. The dimly lit dining room is modest, featuring polished wooden floors and a wood-fired pizza oven as its centrepiece. While pizza purists will appreciate the margarita and pepperoni options, the more adventurous will stoke on the chilli BBQ prawn or lamb and eggplant combo. Wines are mostly Australian and Italian and beers; ditto with the beers.
Cuisine: Modern Italian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Simple, modest interiors.
Location: 87 Manning St, Kiama

11. The Blue Swimmer at Seahaven

the dining interior of The Blue Swimmer at Seahaven, Kiama restaurants — Reserve a table to enjoy comforting seafood by the water. (Image: The Blue Swimmer at Seahaven)

The Blue Swimmer at Seahaven sits on a kink of the Crooked River, which winds all the way to the Gerroa foreshore. It’s one of the best places to eat along the NSW coastline. Book the kids in for a surf lesson and reserve a table for two to enjoy hearty mains like the Martins Ridge Farm pork ragu with house-made fettuccine. Or a comforting seafood laksa bobbing with prawns, fish, mussels and tofu. The restaurant is led by Daniel and Paul Dewhurst, who have enlisted the help of talented chefs Fannie Rousseau and Lauren Brown in the kitchen. The Blue Swimmer is one of the South Coast’s most iconic restaurants for its location, which leans into that holiday fantasy of eating seafood by the sea. The seared scallops alone are worth the 15-minute drive from Kiama.

Cuisine: Contemporary Australian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Bright and breezy.
Location: 19 Riverleigh Avenue, Gerroa

12. Grand Hotel Kiama

the Grand Hotel Kiama exterior — The historic hotel is a local pub favourite on the NSW South Coast. (Image: Grand Hotel Kiama)

Be prepared to feel right at home at the Grand Hotel Kiama, regardless of whether it’s your first time or you are a regular. As the sun dips, the Grand Hotel Kiama comes into its own. Nab a spot in the unpretentious bistro for crowd-pleasing favourites such as grilled steaks, schnitzels, flash-fried squid and spicy wings. The pub is a hub for locals and equally pleasing as a pit stop for those passing through, with accommodation upstairs.

The historic hotel recently underwent a very considered glow-up and its old school charm remains intact. The pub flaunts its good looks from its corner position. And, as Kiama locals will tell you, the kitchen has kicked it up a gear with classic pub grub like bangers and mash, house-crumbed schnitzel and a ploughman’s plate. Meanwhile, head here for $30 Sunday roast with Yorkshire puddings that includes a glass of wine or draught beer.

Cuisine: Classic pub fare
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Busy and vibrant.
Location: Blowhole Point Road, Kiama

13. Cedar Cutters Bar & Restaurant

Kiama Leagues Club is a popular spot for club grub and live music and has a free courtesy bus available to transport you to and from your accommodation from 4pm every day. Head downstairs to the Cedar Cutters Bar & Restaurant for crispy skin salmon and a bowl of wedges while watching your favourite team on the big screen. Kids are also kept happy at the more low-key Sails Bistro , which offers complimentary cheeseburgers and chips. There are also two designated play areas so the little ones can get their wiggles out while waiting for dinner. Lastly, order share plates such as buffalo wings, Vietnamese pork belly bites and crispy fried squid.

Cuisine: Contemporary Australian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Stylish place to gather for large groups or families.
Location: 109 Terralong St, Kiama

14. Hanoi on Manning

Vietnamese meals at Hanoi on Manning, Kiama restaurants — The family-owned Kiama restaurant adds a fresh take on classic Vietnamese flavours. (Image: Hanoi on Manning)

The popularity of this family-owned Vietnamese restaurant remains high 15 years after it opened. In that time, the popularity of Vietnamese food in Australia has spiked as dishes like banh mi and pho have gone from specialty street food to everyday dishes. Hanoi on Manning is quintessential Kiama. As well as being legendary on the NSW South Coast, news is out that this hole-in-the-wall does some of the best BBQ duck rice paper rolls this side of Hanoi.

Coriander, garlic, ginger, soy sauce are the building blocks of the chef’s daily specials. Obviously, go for the gỏi đu đủ (green papaya salad) topped with chicken prawns and crispy fried shallots or the thịt kho trứng (caramelised pork leg and whole egg braised with coconut juice). Unquestionably, the build your own bánh hỏi tôm nướng experience using a selection of salad ingredients is the best. In short, the flavours here are very authentic as they are inspired by the foods the family ate on the streets of Vietnam.

Cuisine: Vietnamese
Average price: $$
Atmosphere: Family friendly.
Location: 10 Manning St, Kiama

15. Silica

a plate of oysters at Silica, Kiama restaurants — Kiama’s freshest local seafood at the esteemed fine dining restaurant Silica. (Image: Supplied)

It was while fishing around the South Coast for the best Kiama restaurants and beyond that we stumbled across Silica . The restaurant is named after the principal constituent of sandstone, a nod to its location overlooking Kiama’s Surf Beach and the mighty Pacific Ocean. Above all, the venue’s menu is based around locally sourced, organic, home-grown ingredients that showcase the very best of South Coast produce. Think kingfish sashimi, Riverine eye-fillet, freshly shucked oysters and roast barramundi.

Another key point to make about Silica is that it receives rave reviews as one of the best Kiama restaurants for eating seafood near to the sea. Likewise, the tasting menu on Saturday nights will knock your socks off with a fantastic spectrum of dishes. Surely, start with the Sydney rock oysters followed by the tempura king prawns with avocado, mandarin, fresh herbs and aioli. Is there anything more satisfying on a Grand Pacific Drive road trip than crumbed calamari and chips with sea views?

Cuisine: Contemporary Australian
Average price: $$
Atmosphere: Family friendly and wallet-friendly.
Location: 72 Manning St, Kiama

16. Cin Cin Wine Bar

Plan your visit to Cin Cine Wine Bar to coincide with the third Wednesday of the month when the  bar hosts its Songwriter Sessions. Accordingly, you can sign up to perform or bunker down to enjoy original music by local songwriters every month. The bar also hosts regular happy hours and pop-up workshops such as Corks & Clay. Meanwhile, digital nomads who want to extend their time on the road should look out for regular specials such as the winter warmer soup special served with warm crusty bread for just $15. Lastly, head to a sunset session, which include $12 cocktails, $8 beers, bubbles and wines before heading out to dinner to one of the best Kiama restaurants.

Cuisine: Contemporary Australian
Average price: $
Atmosphere: Low-key romantic venue.
Location: 6/4 Tingira Crescent, Kiama

Discover the best things to do in Kiama

Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell — Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail. — Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout. — Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views. — Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour — Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton — Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads — Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.